T-Type (TC/TD/TF)

1945-1955 / Roadster / United Kingdom

All T-Type (TC/TD/TF) problems All workshop issues

Minor Brakes

Cable Brake Adjustment (TC)

Symptoms

Brakes are weak, pull to one side, or require excessive pedal effort. One wheel may lock while others barely slow.

Cause

The TC's mechanical (cable-operated) brakes require regular adjustment to maintain even braking across all four wheels. The cables stretch, the adjusters seize, and the brake drum clearances change as shoes wear. Any variation in adjustment between wheels causes uneven braking.

Fix

Adjust all four brake cables to equalise braking effort.

Free seized adjusters with penetrating oil.

Replace worn cables.

Ensure brake shoes are in good condition and drums are not scored.

This is a regular maintenance task, not a fix-once-and-forget item.

Cost: minimal for adjustment; $200-$400 for new cables if needed.

Cost mentioned in fix

$200-$400 for new

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Other known issues

Minor Brakes

Wheel Cylinder Leaks (TD/TF)

Spongy brake pedal, reduced braking power, visible fluid leak at a wheel.

Minor Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Oil Leaks, Everywhere

Oil weeps from every gasket surface, rocker cover, timing cover, sump, rear main seal, and anywhere two castings meet. The area beneath a parked T-Type will have oil spots. Some engines leak enough to require topping up between services.

Critical Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Low Oil Pressure (Worn Bearings)

Oil pressure drops below 40 psi at cruising speed when warm, or below 15 psi at idle. A knocking sound from the bottom end, particularly under load, confirms the diagnosis.

Common Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Dynamo (Generator) Failure

The charge warning light stays on above idle, the battery goes flat, and electrical accessories dim. In some cases, the dynamo seizes and the drive belt snaps or glazes.

Critical Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Overheating

Coolant temperature climbs above normal, particularly in slow traffic or on hot days. Steam from the overflow. In severe cases, the engine boils over.

Common Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Timing Chain Stretch

A rattling noise from the front of the engine, particularly on startup or at idle. The engine may feel down on power and the timing may wander.

View all 15 T-Type (TC/TD/TF) problems